404 West 246th Street – Fieldston Historic District
A Medieval Revival style house designed by Dwight James Baum and built in 1929-30. Application is to replace the sidewalk paving with grass.
HDC opposes this proposal. The bluestone sidewalk is an integral feature of the site and contributes significantly to the historic character of the Fieldston Historic District. The designation report specifically identifies the paving as a notable site feature, and its removal would erode the district’s carefully designed pedestrian landscape. Fieldston’s character relies not only on its architecture, but also on its cohesive network of pathways, walls, paving, and landscaped streetscapes. Replacing the sidewalk with grass would diminish this historic relationship and should not be approved.
26 Bleecker Street – Noho East Historic District
A Classical Revival style store and loft building designed by Louis F. Heinicke and built in 1900-01. Application is to alter the base of the building, install storefront infill and cornices, replace windows, construct a rooftop addition and bulkhead, and demolish and reconstruct rear portions of the building.
HDC largely supports this ambitious rehabilitation proposal and commends the applicant for pursuing a substantial restoration effort.
404 Fifth Avenue – Stewart & Company Building – Individual Landmark
A neo-Classical and Chicago School of Architecture style store and loft building designed by Warren & Wetmore and built in 1914. Application is to replace storefront infill.
HDC finds this proposal to be a substantial improvement over the existing storefront condition. However, some details appear insufficiently resolved, particularly at mullions, posts, caps, and transitional conditions between materials. We also question the proposed white opaque glazing, which may appear overly stark and visually disruptive. A more subdued translucent or obscured glazing treatment may better complement the building’s historic character. We encourage continued refinement of the detailing to produce a more cohesive and elegant storefront composition.